Cloudland Canyon: Sitton Gulch, etc.

Tuesday, April 18 — Cloudland Canyon SP: Sitton Gulch Trail, Two-group option: 3 or 4 miles, moderate, out-and-back; or 8-10 miles, strenuous, out-and-back, elevation gain about 1500’ – 2000’.  The second group will continue hiking up to the top of Cloudland Canyon using an endless series of stairs, viewing two spectacular waterfalls along the way, then wander around the top and sides of the park, eventually returning to the trailhead. We’ll all start out at the Sitton Gulch trailhead at the foot of Lookout Mountain. This popular trail travels alongside a glorious whitewater creek through lots of wildflowers (we hope), and up into a serious gulch with cliffs guarding both sides. The shorter hike will turn around at the bridge over a waterfall, which would be called impressive if it weren’t for the two giant falls further up the trail. Check the weather forecast and choose appropriate layers; wear hiking shoes or boots; bring snacks and/or lunch along with more water than you think you need; and gather up hiking poles, rain jacket, sunscreen, flashlight/headlamp, and insect repellent as needed. For carpooling/caravanning, meet at the parking lot just after LaQuinta Inn, right (north) off I-24 Exit 175 at 8:30 am ET. https://bit.ly/3QITAD4  Please register with hike leader Carl Dumsday, (423) 842-5843 or cdumsday@outlook.com. Specify whether you want the shorter or longer hike. Carpool cost: $2.